Sen. Albers introduces bill to provide health insurance for children with Autism.

ATLANTA (February 26, 2013) – Sen. John Albers (R –Roswell) introduced SB 191, also known as “Ava’s Law,” during Georgia Disabilities Day at the State Capitol on Thursday, February 21, 2013. If passed, this legislation would require health insurers to provide coverage for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

“The passage of this bill is the right thing to do,” said Sen. Albers. “Unlike many of our neighboring states, Georgia does not have any laws on the books that require health insurers to provide coverage for children with Autism.” As this population continues to grow, it is important we act now to provide funding for the early intervention and long-term care of children living with this disease.”

According to the Autism Society of America, Autism is the fastest growing developmental disability and affects nearly 1.5 million Americans. In fact, 1 out of every 88 children is born with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Over the next 10 years, the treatment of Autism is expected to cost anywhere between $200 to $400 million dollars. However, research indicates that the cost of lifelong care can be reduced by two-thirds with early diagnosis and intervention.

In a study conducted on early behavioral intervention for children with Autism, the lifetime cost of treatment is estimated to be $3.2 million per child. With appropriate treatment and clinical intervention, the state is projected to save more than $1 million per child.

Currently, at least 32 states specifically require insurers to provide coverage for the treatment of Autism, making Georgia one of the only 18 states left to adopt measures that support insurance coverage for autism.

If SB 191 is signed into law, $50,000 per year will be required to cover behavioral treatment, which is currently denied by most health care providers. This amount will be adjusted annually for inflation by the Insurance Commissioner.

SB 191 has been assigned to the Senate Insurance and Labor Committee and is awaiting further review.

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Sen. John Albers serves as Chairman of the State Institutions and Property Committee. He represents the 56th Senate District which includes portions of North Fulton and Cherokee counties. He may be reached at his office at 404.463.8055 or by email at john.albers@senate.ga.gov.